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Airline passenger cash guarantee off the table
FOX 13's Evyn Moon shares why consumer advocates are calling this a major setback for travelers.
TAMPA - The Department of Transportation (DOT) has canceled a proposed 2023 rule that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for major delays.
The plan included refunds up to $775 and coverage for travel expenses like hotels or meals while waiting for a delayed flight. Airlines for America, representing major carriers, supports the decision, citing concerns about higher operating costs and ticket prices.
It remains unclear if the DOT will introduce any alternative protections for passengers experiencing delays.
Travelers can still request refunds for completely canceled flights, but eligibility depends on the specific circumstances of each case.
Why you should care:
U.S. travelers are among the few in the world with limited protection for flight delays.
As delays over three hours have quadrupled since the year 2000, passengers may now face out-of-pocket expenses while airlines operate with minimal regulatory oversight.
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Local perspective:
Passengers in Tampa Bay report frustration with long delays. "I sat on the runway for 2.5 hours and got nothing," said traveler Misty Flantroy. FlyersRights, a consumer advocacy group, warns that rewarding airlines with no penalties encourages further delays.
The Source: Information comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s announcement ending the proposed rule, statements from Airlines for America, and interviews with passengers and advocacy group FlyersRights.